Musings on Herbalism, Aromatherapy & Chinese Medicine

The Spirit of Angelica

I wanted to share one of my favorite essential oil blends with you. I created this recipe after a surreal experience with burning the root of Angelica archangelica. I had a good sized root that I harvested years ago and found it so beautiful I just couldn’t bring myself to use it. I carried the root in a jar with me and showed it to students in some of my classes. One night while camping I decided to burn part of the root. As I lit the dried root on fire, I inhaled the smoke and began to feel deeply relaxed. Within seconds the essence of spirits (angels, beings- call them what you will) were all around me. Their gentleness soothed me as I began to remember all the loved ones I have lost. In the smoke from the smoldering root I began to see images of my grandmothers, my friends and others that have passed on. I cried a long cathartic cry as the spirits cradled and whispered words of love into me. When the smoke and spirits disappeared, I felt profoundly relieved from some of the grief I had been holding deep inside.

Although this recipe may not give you an experience like the one I had with the Angelicaroot, I have found this Aromatherapy blend to be super helpful for me during yoga, meditation or any time I need a reminder that I am always held. I hope you find it as yummy as I do.

Spirit of the Sages

1 ounce organic carrier oil, I use Apricot kernel oil (infused with rose, calendula or any flower you love)

Drop essential oils into carrier oil and mix gently. I like to put the oil in a roll-on bottle for easy application to rub on temples, forehead, chest or anywhere desired. Place a drop or two of the oil on your yoga mat to inhale the fragrance whenever you’re in a forward bend or child’s pose.

It is my intention that with each breath you will find more peace, balance and love.